William Francis Clark

William Francis Clark 89, of Indianapolis, passed away on February 27, 2013. He was born December 21, 1923 in Indianapolis, the son of the late William Joseph and Annetta Grace Clark. He was drafted by the US Army in in March 1943 progressing to an eventual rank of Colonel. William served as a Forward Observer in the European theater from August 1944 to April 1945. His exemplary service was recognized with many military distinctions and awards including the Silver Star Medal, three Bronze Stars, American Theater Medal and Good Conduct Medal. After his discharge from the Army, he enrolled in Purdue University through the GI Bill program and graduated with a B.S. degree in electrical engineering. He also received a M.S. degree from Penn State University. Following graduation from Purdue, he began an illustrious 40 year career with Indiana Bell, Ameritech and AT&T, retiring in 1989. Throughout his tenure with these companies, he held several management positions during a period of significant changes in the telecommunications industry. His integral roles with these companies included general plant manager, chief engineer, and vice president at the time of his retirement. His legendary work ethic and dedication earned him widespread respect and admiration throughout AT&T. Despite his extensive professional obligations, he also found time to serve the Indianapolis community. He was president of the Washington Township School Board from 1974 to 1978. He also held several leadership positions at Northminster Presbyterian Church and was involved in many activities related to his children, including scouting, little league baseball and others. Throughout his life with all the business and civic responsibilities, he always regarded his family as his greatest accomplishment. After he retired, he dedicated his life to supporting his children, other family members and many others in incredible acts of kindness. Countless people and organizations benefitted from Doris and William's generosity. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Doris Fleck Clark, who passed away April 27th 2012. He is survived by his daughter, Jennie (Andy) Maguire of Zionsville; two sons, Robert (Karen) Clark of Carmel and William (Kathy) Clark of Indianapolis; brother James Clark, sisters Mary Schildmeier, Patricia Hurley, Dorothy Clark, Kathleen Kempinger; and eight grandchildren, Megan, Grace and Emily Maguire, Katie, Kelly, Kristen Clark, and Caroline and William Clark. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Marguerite Clark. The family would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the staff at Clearwater Commons for the loving and compassionate care they provided and to Dr. John Schaefer and Dr. Kirk Parr for the incredible medical care they provided over many years. Friends are invited to call from noon to 2:00 pm Monday at St. Lukes Methodist Church, of which William and Doris Clark were charter members in 1954. Services will be conducted at 2:00 PM with Rev. Rob Fuquay officiating. Burial will be at Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis. Donations can be made in memory of William F. Clark to the American Red Cross. You are invited to go to the Guest Book page to pass along your personal message or tell a story. Sincerely, -Your friends at Flanner and Buchanan